New Audi R10 In The Works?

Audi has gotten a lot of attention lately for its exotic-lite mid-engined R8, and rightfully so. Along with new mainstream models like the A4 and Q5, it has helped vault Audi to a new level - in fact, Audi had its best-ever sales year in 2008.

It was sort of surprising that the R8 was allowed to be produced, given it can be seen as a a low-budget alternative to the Gallardo. However, the boost in image that it gave Audi is extremely valuable - the potential for high profit at the Audi brand through using halo models was an appealing proposition to VW's planners.

AutoExpress is reporting that a model is actually in the works to slot above the R8, called the R10. The R10 would be based on the same platform as Lamborghini's Murcielago replacement, the Jota.

The car would be powered by a turbocharged 5.0-liter V10 making 600 horsepower and mated to an Audi Quattro all-wheel drive system as standard.

Supposedly prelimnary prototypes disguised as Lamborghinis are being spied near the famous Nurburgring track in Germany. So does Audi want to join the true supercar market? Who knows. Cadillac would do well making a production Cienn and BMW needs to bring the M1 back to life. Mercedes has the SLS AMG - which could be considered high-end but not at the level of a mid-engined car like a potential R10.

The difference in this case with Audi is cannibalization - Audi already has the R8 and Bugatti, Lamborghini and now Porsche are all under the same roof. While the R8 could be thought of as a low-budget Gallardo, the R10 would be aimed squarely in Lamborghini territory, even sharing a platform.

The business case is hard to make, especially with pricing as well - if it cheaper than a Lamborghini with similar performance, it makes sense to get one instead. If it is around the same, why not just get the Lambo? Those are questions I'm sure VW is asking - we'll see if such a model ever comes to fruition.